![To make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, you need: - 4 medium potatoes, diced - 1 cup cooked ham, diced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and black pepper to taste - 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) These ingredients blend together to create a rich and creamy soup. Each one adds depth and flavor to the dish. The potatoes give it body, while the ham offers a savory punch. You can customize the soup with extra ingredients: - Additional vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery) - Different types of cheese (e.g., smoked gouda, pepper jack) Adding more vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. You can mix and match cheeses for a unique taste. Feel free to experiment! For the full recipe and steps, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes. - Next, combine 4 diced medium potatoes and 1 cup of diced cooked ham. Stir them well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. - Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. - Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes, leaving some chunks. - Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a thicker soup, let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes without the lid. - Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with the remaining cheese and sliced green onions for garnish. You can find the full recipe above to make this dish a favorite in your kitchen. To make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup truly delicious, use homemade chicken broth. It adds a rich taste that store-bought broth cannot match. If you can, let the soup simmer longer. This allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Different potatoes cook at different rates. For example, russets may take longer than waxy potatoes. Keep that in mind when cooking. If you want the soup creamy, use a potato masher. Lightly mash some potatoes but leave some chunks for texture. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For extra flavor, top your soup with bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream. These little touches make a big difference in taste. You can find the full recipe above and enjoy this comforting dish! {{image_2}} To make this soup in a slow cooker, you need to adjust the steps. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in a pan. Then, place all ingredients into the slow cooker. This includes diced potatoes, diced ham, chicken broth, thyme, and cream. Set the cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese about 30 minutes before serving. This allows it to melt perfectly. If you want to use an Instant Pot, you can make this soup in no time. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic using the sauté function. After that, add in the potatoes, ham, and chicken broth. Seal the lid and set the pressure to high for 10 minutes. After cooking, let it naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. Then, carefully release the rest. Stir in the cream and cheese before serving. You can easily make this soup vegetarian. Instead of ham, use cooked lentils or mushrooms. They add a nice texture and flavor. For cream and cheese alternatives, try plant-based versions. These options work well without losing creaminess. You can also add extra veggies like carrots or broccoli for more taste and nutrition. To keep your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup fresh, store it properly. First, let the soup cool. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry. You can keep the soup in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it carefully. You can use the microwave or the stovetop. For the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This helps the soup heat evenly. If you choose the stovetop, use a pot over low heat. Stir the soup often to keep it from sticking. Both methods will keep the flavor and texture nice. If you want to freeze the soup, follow these steps. First, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. To avoid freezer burn, use a vacuum sealer if you have one. You can also wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap. When you want to eat it, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Heat it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for 3 to 4 days. When you reheat it, do so on low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. To thicken your soup, try these options: - Mashed potatoes: Mash some of the cooked potatoes in the soup. - Cornstarch: Mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir it in. - Flour: Make a roux by cooking flour with butter before adding it to the soup. - Cream cheese: Stir in a block of cream cheese for added richness. Yes, you can make a vegan version with some swaps: - Ham: Use smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar flavor. - Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. - Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. - Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Here are some ideas: - Carrots: Dice them small and add them with the potatoes. - Celery: Chop and sauté with onions and garlic. - Peas: Stir in frozen peas at the end of cooking. - Spinach: Add fresh spinach just before serving for a pop of green. For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Cheesy Ham & Potato Bliss section. In this blog post, I shared a simple recipe for Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup. I outlined the key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for great flavor. You can customize this soup with different cheeses or add veggies. Remember, you can make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot too. Cooking should be fun, and this soup is a warm and tasty choice. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving suggestions. Your kitchen can be a space for comfort and joy!](https://goodsouppot.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/36c626a4-805f-46fe-959e-460ba0c513db-768x768.webp)
Are you ready for a warm bowl of comfort? This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is not just easy to make; it’s packed with flavor and heartiness that will satisfy your taste buds. Imagine creamy potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese all coming together in one pot. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family dinner, this dish will surely hit the spot. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make something special!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
To make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, you need:
– 4 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
These ingredients blend together to create a rich and creamy soup. Each one adds depth and flavor to the dish. The potatoes give it body, while the ham offers a savory punch.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can customize the soup with extra ingredients:
– Additional vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery)
– Different types of cheese (e.g., smoked gouda, pepper jack)
Adding more vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. You can mix and match cheeses for a unique taste. Feel free to experiment! For the full recipe and steps, check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps for Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes.
– Next, combine 4 diced medium potatoes and 1 cup of diced cooked ham. Stir them well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Steps
– Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
Final Touches
– Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes, leaving some chunks.
– Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
– Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a thicker soup, let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes without the lid.
– Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with the remaining cheese and sliced green onions for garnish.
You can find the full recipe above to make this dish a favorite in your kitchen.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Best Flavor
To make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup truly delicious, use homemade chicken broth. It adds a rich taste that store-bought broth cannot match. If you can, let the soup simmer longer. This allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully.
Cooking Method Tips
Different potatoes cook at different rates. For example, russets may take longer than waxy potatoes. Keep that in mind when cooking. If you want the soup creamy, use a potato masher. Lightly mash some potatoes but leave some chunks for texture.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For extra flavor, top your soup with bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream. These little touches make a big difference in taste. You can find the full recipe above and enjoy this comforting dish!
Variations
Slow Cooker Version of Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
To make this soup in a slow cooker, you need to adjust the steps. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in a pan. Then, place all ingredients into the slow cooker. This includes diced potatoes, diced ham, chicken broth, thyme, and cream. Set the cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese about 30 minutes before serving. This allows it to melt perfectly.
Instant Pot Version
If you want to use an Instant Pot, you can make this soup in no time. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic using the sauté function. After that, add in the potatoes, ham, and chicken broth. Seal the lid and set the pressure to high for 10 minutes. After cooking, let it naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. Then, carefully release the rest. Stir in the cream and cheese before serving.
Vegetarian and Alternative Versions
You can easily make this soup vegetarian. Instead of ham, use cooked lentils or mushrooms. They add a nice texture and flavor. For cream and cheese alternatives, try plant-based versions. These options work well without losing creaminess. You can also add extra veggies like carrots or broccoli for more taste and nutrition.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup fresh, store it properly. First, let the soup cool. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry. You can keep the soup in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Guidelines
When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it carefully. You can use the microwave or the stovetop. For the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This helps the soup heat evenly. If you choose the stovetop, use a pot over low heat. Stir the soup often to keep it from sticking. Both methods will keep the flavor and texture nice.
Freezing the Soup
If you want to freeze the soup, follow these steps. First, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. To avoid freezer burn, use a vacuum sealer if you have one. You can also wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap. When you want to eat it, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Heat it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for 3 to 4 days. When you reheat it, do so on low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
What can I add to make the soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, try these options:
– Mashed potatoes: Mash some of the cooked potatoes in the soup.
– Cornstarch: Mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir it in.
– Flour: Make a roux by cooking flour with butter before adding it to the soup.
– Cream cheese: Stir in a block of cream cheese for added richness.
Is it possible to make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version with some swaps:
– Ham: Use smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar flavor.
– Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
– Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
– Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How do I add more vegetables to the soup?
Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Here are some ideas:
– Carrots: Dice them small and add them with the potatoes.
– Celery: Chop and sauté with onions and garlic.
– Peas: Stir in frozen peas at the end of cooking.
– Spinach: Add fresh spinach just before serving for a pop of green.
For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Cheesy Ham & Potato Bliss section.
In this blog post, I shared a simple recipe for Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup. I outlined the key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for great flavor. You can customize this soup with different cheeses or add veggies. Remember, you can make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot too.
Cooking should be fun, and this soup is a warm and tasty choice. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving suggestions. Your kitchen can be a space for comfort and joy!
![To make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, you need: - 4 medium potatoes, diced - 1 cup cooked ham, diced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 4 cups chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - Salt and black pepper to taste - 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) These ingredients blend together to create a rich and creamy soup. Each one adds depth and flavor to the dish. The potatoes give it body, while the ham offers a savory punch. You can customize the soup with extra ingredients: - Additional vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery) - Different types of cheese (e.g., smoked gouda, pepper jack) Adding more vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. You can mix and match cheeses for a unique taste. Feel free to experiment! For the full recipe and steps, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. - Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes. - Next, combine 4 diced medium potatoes and 1 cup of diced cooked ham. Stir them well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. - Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. - Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes, leaving some chunks. - Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a thicker soup, let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes without the lid. - Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with the remaining cheese and sliced green onions for garnish. You can find the full recipe above to make this dish a favorite in your kitchen. To make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup truly delicious, use homemade chicken broth. It adds a rich taste that store-bought broth cannot match. If you can, let the soup simmer longer. This allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully. Different potatoes cook at different rates. For example, russets may take longer than waxy potatoes. Keep that in mind when cooking. If you want the soup creamy, use a potato masher. Lightly mash some potatoes but leave some chunks for texture. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For extra flavor, top your soup with bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream. These little touches make a big difference in taste. You can find the full recipe above and enjoy this comforting dish! {{image_2}} To make this soup in a slow cooker, you need to adjust the steps. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in a pan. Then, place all ingredients into the slow cooker. This includes diced potatoes, diced ham, chicken broth, thyme, and cream. Set the cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese about 30 minutes before serving. This allows it to melt perfectly. If you want to use an Instant Pot, you can make this soup in no time. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic using the sauté function. After that, add in the potatoes, ham, and chicken broth. Seal the lid and set the pressure to high for 10 minutes. After cooking, let it naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. Then, carefully release the rest. Stir in the cream and cheese before serving. You can easily make this soup vegetarian. Instead of ham, use cooked lentils or mushrooms. They add a nice texture and flavor. For cream and cheese alternatives, try plant-based versions. These options work well without losing creaminess. You can also add extra veggies like carrots or broccoli for more taste and nutrition. To keep your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup fresh, store it properly. First, let the soup cool. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry. You can keep the soup in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it carefully. You can use the microwave or the stovetop. For the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This helps the soup heat evenly. If you choose the stovetop, use a pot over low heat. Stir the soup often to keep it from sticking. Both methods will keep the flavor and texture nice. If you want to freeze the soup, follow these steps. First, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. To avoid freezer burn, use a vacuum sealer if you have one. You can also wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap. When you want to eat it, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Heat it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for 3 to 4 days. When you reheat it, do so on low heat. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. To thicken your soup, try these options: - Mashed potatoes: Mash some of the cooked potatoes in the soup. - Cornstarch: Mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir it in. - Flour: Make a roux by cooking flour with butter before adding it to the soup. - Cream cheese: Stir in a block of cream cheese for added richness. Yes, you can make a vegan version with some swaps: - Ham: Use smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar flavor. - Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. - Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. - Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Here are some ideas: - Carrots: Dice them small and add them with the potatoes. - Celery: Chop and sauté with onions and garlic. - Peas: Stir in frozen peas at the end of cooking. - Spinach: Add fresh spinach just before serving for a pop of green. For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Cheesy Ham & Potato Bliss section. In this blog post, I shared a simple recipe for Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup. I outlined the key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for great flavor. You can customize this soup with different cheeses or add veggies. Remember, you can make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot too. Cooking should be fun, and this soup is a warm and tasty choice. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving suggestions. Your kitchen can be a space for comfort and joy!](https://goodsouppot.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/36c626a4-805f-46fe-959e-460ba0c513db-250x250.webp)
